Sporting and music venues across the North East have reviewed their security procedures following the terrorist attack on Monday.

A spokesperson for the Academy Music Group which operates the music venue on Westgate Road said that the tragedy had “struck particularly close to their hearts.”

They said: “To all those affected, we send our thoughts, condolences and a great deal of love. It goes without saying that the ongoing safety of our customers, staff and performers is of absolute paramount importance.

The O2 Academy

“Our venues are monitored at all times, but please can we ask for your help by arriving in good time, as we carry out security searches on entry.

“If at any time you see or hear anything untoward, please speak to a member of staff.

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“Please plan ahead and do your best to travel as lightly as possible. Searches are in place, and we really don’t want to slow you down getting in. So if you really, really need to bring a bag, please make sure that it’s small (less than laptop size or a small handbag).”

All planned listings will still go ahead and Newcastle singer Channy Thompson will perform at the venue on Friday before Chaka Khan and The Maccabees play next month.

The Academy music group says it works with police and local authorities on a regular basis and training exercises and new security measures have been put in place.

More than 100 people were injured and 22 people killed after the explosion at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester on Monday night.

Take That have now cancelled their planned concerts at the Manchester Arena.

In a statement, the arena said: “Due to the tragic events of Monday night and the ongoing police investigation, the scheduled Take That concerts for Thursday May 25, Friday May 26 and Saturday May 27 have been postponed.”